BOY scout James Lauchlan’s dedication to helping others has earned him the title of Stonehouse Young Person of the Year.

James, 15, was among the winners at this year’s Stonehouse Town Council civic awards.

The award given to James carries the full title of The Vicky Wakefield-Heath Young Person of the Year Award. It is named after Vicky Wakefield-Heath, who was well-known for her work with churches and Christian groups in the area and who sadly died from cancer in May last year at the age of just 26.

Maidenhill School pupil James has helped at a scout group for several years and is now an integral part of the Stonehouse Action 4 Youth forum.

The Year Ten pupil has attended some of the residential events for the Stroud District youth forum and is highly regarded by the youth leaders. James, a member of Farriers Scouts in Leonard Stanley, said: “I felt proud to receive the award and it’s a cool achievement. I hope to carry on helping the youth in this community.”

Winners of the Community Group of the Year Award were Itchy Feet Dance Crew which was founded in 1978 by Diane King. It has represented Stonehouse in competitions in Plymouth, Birmingham, London and Manchester over many years.